Course Agenda


Pre-reading assignment prior to starting the course:

Jackson, B.A., Baker, J. C., Cragin, k., Parachini, j., Trujillo, H. R., Chalk, P. (2005). Organizational learning in terrorist groups and its implications for
combating terrorism.
Santa Monica, CA: Rand Corporation. Accessed at http://www.rand_mg331.pdf terrorism counterterrorism organizational learning

Read the Summary and Chapters 1-2. (These are the only required sections, but since you may find the report interesting and useful, I have included it in its entirety for your reading enjoyment). While you read this material, ask yourself the following questions:
  • Have we been as effective as the terrorist groups in adapting to change? Why or Why Not?
  • Can you identify a specific area where we have a significant advantage in combating terror? How about an area where we are significantly disadvantaged?
  • What are things we might do to close a gap between what we are doing currently and what needs to change or improve?
Time requirement: 1 hour

Lesson 1--Introduction

Time requirement: 30 minutes

  • Topics:
    • Introduction to the course
    • Course Objectives and Outcomes
    • Definitions
    • Rationale for this course


Lesson 2

Time requirement: 30 minutes

Assignment: 1 hour

  • Topics
    • Organizational culture
    • Drawbacks of dealing with Organizational Culture
      • Viscous
      • Mysterious
      • Unselective
      • Pervasive
  • What does our own culture look like?
  • What are our values and practices?


Lesson 3

Time requirement: 30 minutes

Assignment: 1 hour

  • Topics
    • Knowledge hoarding and its problems
    • Change (for the better)
    • What can one person do?
    • Lessons Learned



Lesson 4

Time requirement: 1 hour

  • Topics
    • Final Project
    • Create a blog
    • Post to the blog
    • Course evaluation